Mechanical engineering

The B.S.M.E. in mechanical engineering is a 128-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

View the degree map 

Explore program courses in the University Catalog

Learning outcomes 

Graduates of the mechanical engineering program will be prepared to identify, formulate and solve complex engineering problems using principles of engineering, science and mathematics. You will design solutions that consider public health, safety, ethical responsibilities and global, environmental, social and economic impacts. At the conclusion of the degree, you will communicate effectively, collaborate in diverse teams, conduct experiments, analyze data, apply engineering judgment and continuously acquire new knowledge to address evolving technologies and engineering challenges. 

Class format 

Mechanical engineering courses progress from foundational concepts to advanced design and application. Early coursework builds essential skills in mathematics, science, programming, communication and engineering fundamentals, including statics, dynamics and materials. As you advance, you’ll apply these principles through specialized courses in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, design analysis and experimental methods. Upper-level courses emphasize complex systems design, technical electives, senior laboratory experiences and a capstone-style design sequence that integrates knowledge through real-world engineering challenges. 

Customize your engineering degree to match your career and educational goals through technical electives and certificate programs. Develop specialized skills for evolving industry needs or preparing for graduate study, research and advanced opportunities in engineering and related fields. 

You will participate in the college’s nationally recognized Interdisciplinary Capstone Design program, collaborating with a team on an industry- or department-sponsored project that builds teamwork, technical expertise and problem-solving skills while creating innovative solutions to real-world engineering challenges. This program culminates in the Engineering Design EXPO, one of the largest university events held each spring.

Industry connections throughout your academic journey provide valuable opportunities to build your professional network through paid internships, career networking events and employer engagement. These experiences help position you for successful placement in engineering careers and graduate programs in high-demand fields including aerospace, robotics, automation, advanced manufacturing, energy systems, automotive engineering and emerging technologies. 

Faculty expertise

Work alongside faculty with expertise in:

• Aerospace systems and engineering applications
• Robotics, automation and intelligent systems
• Renewable energy and sustainable energy technologies
• Thermal-fluid systems, including heat transfer and fluid mechanics
• Mechanical design, modeling and analysis
• Advanced manufacturing and engineering materials
• Experimental methods, testing and data-driven engineering solutions
• Applied research addressing complex challenges in industry and society

Connect with program faculty

Accelerated 4+1 Master of Engineering

The Accelerated 4+1 Master of Engineering (M.Engr.) program allows University of Idaho undergraduate students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in an accelerated timeframe. Eligible students can complete the M.Engr. degree in one additional year while paying in-state undergraduate tuition rates.

You must apply to the accelerated program before completing your undergraduate degree and meet application deadlines established by the College of Graduate Studies. Students who have completed credits beyond undergraduate degree requirements may be eligible to apply approved credits toward their graduate degree requirements. The 4+1 pathway provides a streamlined opportunity for you to advance your expertise and prepare for professional career opportunities. 

Advising  

• First-year undergraduates — Our professional advisors can help you learn more about degree options, select a major, identify required and elective courses and build a plan toward graduation. As you progress through your degree, you’ll transition to a faculty advisor.  
• Transfer students — If you have 13 or less transfer credits, email Student Services or call 208-885-6470. If you have more than 13 credits, contact the department you're transferring into. 

Hands-on learning  

All U of I College of Engineering students participate in hands-on activities through:  

• Nationally ranked Senior Capstone Design Program - Emphasizing the engineering design process and the development of a fully engineered, tested and validated outcome or prototype. Interdisciplinary student teams present their industry-sponsored projects at the annual Engineering Design EXPO.  
• Cooperative Education Program (Co-op) – Get paid up to $20,000 alternating semesters of academic study with paid full-time employment in your field.    

• Earn funding to explore areas that interest you – Customize your college experience through opportunities that support academic, professional and personal development in the College of Engineering Professional Skills Academy. Pursue technical certificates in engineering and computer science, build professional networks with faculty and industry partners and engage in hands-on research and project-based learning. 

• Internships and summer programs – Gain real-world experience through paid internships, fellowships and research mentorship programs. Work with leading companies, national laboratories and research centers to apply classroom knowledge, develop technical and professional skills and build industry connections. 
   

Our college offers 20+ clubs and organizations tied to international and national engineering organizations, including national competition teams. 

Learn about clubs related to your major:

• Vandal Motorsports Club (competing in the SAE Baja competition)
• Aerospace Club (competing in the AIAA Design, Build, Fly competition)
• American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
• Humanitarian Engineering Corps (HEC)
• National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
• Robotics Club
• Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
• Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
• Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
• Tau Beta Pi - Engineering Honor Society (TBP)
• Vandal Atmospheric Science Team (VAST) 

While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:

• Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
• Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
• Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
• Earn more than $64,000 in scholarships over the course of four years through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). Eligible first-year and transfer students are considered simply by filling out their U of I admission application. There’s no separate application or deadline.  
• Merit- and need-based College of Engineering scholarships – Engineering students receive more than $1 million in scholarships annually. All first-time students and first-time transfer students in the College of Engineering are automatically considered for merit- and need-based scholarships and financial aid when filling out the admissions application and FAFSA. There are no separate scholarship applications required to be considered. Continuing students are also automatically considered after filling out the FAFSA each year.  
• Additional College of Engineering scholarships – Additional scholarships are available based on major and interest areas. Browse engineering scholarships and application processes. 

If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance. 

Idaho LAUNCH

This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.

Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.

Recognized STEM Program

This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.

Learn more about STEM approved CIP/degree codes

Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.

Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.